On Lee Jaemyung's Rightward Shift:
"He Keeps His Seat on the Left, Only Leaning His Body to the Right"
Han Praises and Embraces Fellow People Power Party Primary Candidates
Han Donghoon, former leader who passed the second round of the People Power Party’s presidential primary, stated on April 29, “The People Power Party is the core of conservatism, and even if we build a big tent, it must be centered around our party’s candidate.” He dismissed calls for a “one-shot primary” between acting President and Prime Minister Han Ducksoo and the People Power Party’s presidential candidate, which have emerged as Han Ducksoo’s candidacy becomes more likely.
Han Donghoon met with reporters at the People Power Party’s central headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul, in the afternoon following the announcement of the second primary results. He said, “The outcome was decided by the choice of 700,000 party members. We must respect the party members and the system. Alliances of political forces always occur during elections, but if we move with only that as our goal, it is defeatism.”
This was in response to former Daegu Mayor Hong Joonpyo’s suggestion, made during his remarks after the second primary, that it would be best for the two candidates advancing to the third round and acting President Han Ducksoo to hold a one-shot primary.
Han Donghoon emphasized, “The center of conservatism is the People Power Party, and a fierce primary is taking place according to the rules. I will focus on this.” He added, “Once the primary candidate is confirmed, we will look for ways to unite our strength in various directions. However, I do not agree with talk of unification or similar discussions in the middle of the process.”
When asked by a reporter whether, if he becomes the presidential candidate, he believes the big tent of conservatism should include figures such as Lee Nakyon, advisor to the New Democratic Party, Han Donghoon replied, “There are no limits to alliances between political groups. There is no need to define such things in advance.” However, he continued, “But right now, the People Power Party, which is the center of conservatism, is in the midst of an important primary. This is the time to focus our attention and energy here.”
He went on to say, “I do not think we should keep seeking out the opposition or asking for their advice. At this moment, our party members are voting earnestly, with a very large number focused on this process. Is it appropriate to ask opposition figures for help because we might lose? I do not think so.”
Regarding polling results that show him trailing the party’s support level in a head-to-head matchup with Lee Jaemyung, the Democratic Party’s presidential candidate, Han Donghoon said, “Approval ratings before the party’s candidate is confirmed are meaningless. In fact, what should be noted is that Lee Jaemyung is unable to break through the 45% mark.”
When a reporter pointed out that Han Donghoon, as Minister of Justice, indicted Lee Jaemyung for violating the Public Official Election Act and other charges, but Lee was acquitted, and asked whether the prosecution had overreached, Han Donghoon responded, “How many people really believe Lee Jaemyung was indicted on false charges? Just because there was an incomprehensible verdict does not mean there was no wrongdoing. Even those who support Lee Jaemyung would not make that claim.”
He added, “I think most people see it as Lee Jaemyung getting away by luck. The judicial system in South Korea is solid. Lee Jaemyung will be held legally accountable. He will be judged in this election. I will make sure of it.”
Regarding Lee Jaemyung’s outreach to conservative figures, Han Donghoon remarked, “He always keeps his seat on the left but leans his body to the right. Do you think the people will see any meaning in that?”
On April 29, at the People Power Party headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul, candidate Han Donghoon is expressing his thoughts after advancing in the announcement event for the third round of the 21st presidential candidate selection of the People Power Party. 2025.4.29 Photo by National Assembly Press Photographers Group
While Han Donghoon has previously taken an aggressive stance and supported the impeachment of former President Yoon Sukyeol, on this day he encouraged and called for unity among the People Power Party’s preliminary candidates.
Reflecting on passing the second round, Han Donghoon said, “It was my first time speaking with former Daegu Mayor Hong Joonpyo. If I had met him a few years earlier, I might have become a supporter of Hong Joonpyo. He is that charismatic, and even more daring, bold, and spirited than I am, despite my youth. I want to express my respect. I learned a lot from him.” He continued, “As a junior, I want to say I respect the many contributions he has made to Korea and conservatism over his 30-year journey.”
He also praised Representative Ahn Cheolsoo, saying, “Representative Ahn’s insight and open-mindedness were truly impressive. Despite his long political career, he remains open to new areas and new challenges. I was amazed and have great respect. I will continue to support his political future and activities.”
Regarding Kim Moonsoo, former Minister of Employment and Labor, who also advanced to the third round, Han Donghoon said, “I met him several times while serving as Minister of Justice, and we share some similarities. We both cannot hide our true thoughts. While there may be differences in our views, we are the same in our patriotism and commitment to protecting the country.”
He continued, “Although Minister Kim and I are somewhat different in this challenging presidential race, we must work together as one team to stand against Lee Jaemyung. In the remaining primary, we will fight together against Lee Jaemyung and become a winning team. I know I have many shortcomings, but I am determined and confident that I will win. I will fight for you with the resolve to stand and fight to the end, and I will win.”
On April 29, 2025, at the People Power Party headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul, candidates and party leadership are taking a commemorative photo at the announcement event for the third round of the People Power Party's 21st presidential candidate primary. Photo by National Assembly Press Photographers Group
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